The Independent is reporting that Francis Wheen is in talks to take his 1999 biography of Karl Marx to the silver screen. The immediate question: who would play the bushy-bearded father of communism?

In an earlier attempt at cinematic adaptation eight years ago, Harvey Weinstein wanted Ralph Fiennes, but Wheen has said he favours Johnny Depp. What do you think: could the wispy whiskers of Captain Jack be teased out?

Or who else would you like to cast in the role of the British Library reading room's most famous user?